BANGKOK (Bernama): The planned launch of a direct Bangkok-Kuala Lumpur flight service in July by Thailand’s low-cost carrier Nok Air is a strategic move to boost aviation connectivity amid rising regional travel demand, Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said.
He said the proposed route is more than just an additional service, as it strengthens bilateral travel links while supporting tourism and business activities between Malaysia and Thailand.
"More efficient direct connections will improve travel convenience, support stronger tourism flows and facilitate closer business exchanges between the two countries,” he said in a statement on Saturday.
Tiong added that Kuala Lumpur, as Malaysia’s main international gateway, is well-positioned to serve as a strategic hub within the regional aviation network.
He said the government remains open to deeper collaboration with regional airline partners and welcomes commercially viable proposals that support sustained tourism growth.
"Air connectivity is not simply a matter of transportation; it shapes the movement of people, tourism spending and regional economic exchange.
"Through cooperation with carriers such as Nok Air, we aim to strengthen Malaysia’s role within the regional aviation landscape while supporting sustainable growth in the tourism sector,” he said.
He added that Tourism Malaysia will work closely with Nok Air to support the rollout of the route and its market development.
Earlier, Tiong held a meeting with Pichit Satapattayanont and former CEO and current Nok Air shareholder Wutthiphum Jurangkool to discuss the airline’s expansion into Malaysia and broader efforts to strengthen regional air links between the two countries.
At present, Nok Air operates an extensive network of domestic routes from Bangkok (Don Mueang) to major Thai cities such as Chiang Mai, Phuket, Hat Yai, and Surat Thani. -- BERNAMA
